Greyhound of the Year Swift Hoffman has covered his first bitch since retiring to stud, the Romford based open racer, Genie.

Handler Pat Rosney said: “It couldn’t have gone better. It was a very good mating, he is a natural.”

Hoffman will remain in Britain for another month before joining Richard Culley who is based in Kildare and currently has Forest Master on his books.

Rosney said: “We have reached a two year deal with Richard and breeder Ian Greaves has offered to send half a dozen of his broods to help get him started.

“Before Hoffman leaves, we will be taking a maximum of ten straws from him. I want one for Little Flame, another has already been sold, and I expect the others to go very shortly.

“We will review the situation in a couple of years time and see how Hoffman’s career is going. Hopefully he will be a success, but if for any reason it isn’t working, he will always have a home here with Julie and myself.”